Simple Yoruba expression to use when visiting friends/family

In Yoruba culture, visiting family and friends is more than just a social act—it is an opportunity to show respect, warmth, and togetherness. Whether it’s a surprise visit, a celebration, or a quick check-in, Yoruba speakers use polite and thoughtful phrases to greet their hosts, acknowledge their home, and create a welcoming atmosphere.

For Yoruba learners and Diasporans trying to maintain strong cultural ties, knowing what to say when visiting others is essential. These phrases are simple, respectful, and useful in everyday life. They help you blend naturally into Yoruba-speaking communities and leave a good impression wherever you go.

This article provides a collection of polite Yoruba expressions you can use when visiting someone’s home, with their English meanings and examples. They are easy to remember and beginner-friendly.

1. Ẹ káàbọ̀ – Welcome
This phrase is often said by the host, but a visitor may repeat it politely back with a smile.
Example:
– Ẹ káàbọ̀, bàbá – Welcome, sir.
– Ẹ ṣé, mo dúpẹ́. – Thank you, I appreciate it.

2. Ẹ kú ilé – Well done at home
This is a respectful way to greet someone when you enter their house.
Example:
– Ẹ kú ilé, Anty Rèmí. – Well done, Aunty Remi.

3. Ẹ kú ìròlé or Ẹ káalẹ́ – Good evening
Used depending on the time of day. Greeting first shows good manners.
Example:
– Ẹ káalẹ́, mo wá ṣàbẹ̀wọ̀. – Good evening, I came to check on you.

4. Mo wá ṣàbẹ̀wọ̀ – I came to visit
This is a clear and polite way to explain why you're there.
Example:
– Mo wá ṣàbẹ̀wọ̀ yín lónìí. – I came to visit you today.

5. Ṣé àlàáfíà ni? – Is everything fine?
A polite way to ask about their wellbeing, often said after greeting.
Example:
– Ẹ káàárọ̀. Ṣé àlàáfíà ni? – Good morning. Is everything okay?

6. Ẹ kú àbọ̀ – Welcome back (if they recently returned from a journey)
This phrase is often used during a visit if the person just got home from a trip.
Example:
– Ẹ kú àbọ̀ o. Ṣé irin àjò dáa? – Welcome back. Was the journey safe?

7. Ẹ kú ìsimi – Well done for enjoying your break
Perfect for weekend or festive period visits.
Example:
– Ẹ kú ìsimi, mo rò pé kí n wá ṣàbẹ̀wọ̀. – I thought to visit during your rest.

8. Ẹ ṣé fún ìtẹ́wọ́gbà yín – Thank you for your warm welcome
Use this as a polite thank-you before leaving.
Example:
– Ẹ ṣé púpọ̀ fún ìtẹ́wọ́gbà yín. – Thank you so much for your kind welcome.

9. Mo fẹ́ máa lọ – I would like to leave now
This shows polite intention to take your leave.
Example:
– Mo fẹ́ máa lọ, ẹ ṣé púpọ̀. – I want to go now, thank you very much.

10. Ó dábọ̀ / Ó dìgbà – Goodbye / Till next time
End your visit on a warm and respectful note.
Example:
– Ó dábọ̀, ẹ jó kí gbogbo ẹbí. – Goodbye, please greet the whole family.

Conclusion
When you visit family or friends in a Yoruba-speaking setting, the words you use show your respect and upbringing. These polite Yoruba phrases are simple but powerful. They help you communicate love, humility, and friendliness, whether you're at home in Nigeria or abroad.